Feeling Spooky? Don’t Forget These Pet Safety Tips from spcaLA

Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA) wants all members of the family to be safe this Halloween and offers these Halloween safety tips for your pets.
spcaLA recommends all pet owners set up a safe haven in their homes for their pets on Halloween, and take the following safety measures:
• Keep pets indoors.
• Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with an ID tag with current info at all times, even inside. 90% of lost pets are found by neighbors — a collar with ID can lead to a quicker reunion if your pet escapes.
• Make sure your pet is microchipped with registered up-to-date info.
• Confine your pet to a safe, quiet area on Halloween night and during parties. Give him his favorite bed, toys, soothing music, or a human companion.
• Leave the family pet at home while trick-or-treating.
• Only use costumes made for pets and don’t leave them unsupervised in costume. Some pets don’t enjoy wearing a costume, so don’t force them.
• Keep your pets away from lit candles.
• Remember, candy is not for pets! Keep pets away from toxic treats and their wrappers.
• Program the number for poison control and your pet’s veterinarian, into your phone.
• Teach your dog to “come when called” — a fail-safe should he get loose when trick-or-treaters come calling.

spcaLA reminds Halloween tricksters that a costume does not excuse animal cruelty. Targeting a dog, cat, or other animal in a prank can lead to serious consequences for both the perpetrator and the animal, no matter how benign the actions may seem. If you see animal cruelty, report it by calling 1-800-540-SPCA.